The Me-163 'Komet' was designed by Dr. Alexander Lippisch and development began in 1937. The first Me-163A prototypes were tested in 1941, but powered flight testing of the more advanced Me-163B was delayed until August 1943 due to engine and fuel problems. Although the Komet's rocket engine gave it an exceptional climb rate, range was severely limited by its high fuel consumption. Furthermore, the fuels used were extremely hazardous [T-Stoff (80% concentrated hydrogen peroxide/20%oxyquinoline), C-Stoff (methanol-hydrazine mixture)] and sometimes exploded without warning, killing a number of pilots. Production Me-163Bs were not ready for operational use until July 1944. The Luftwaffe planned to have small units of Komets dispersed to intercept Allied bomber formations, but only 279 Me-163Bs were delivered by the end of the war. The sole operational Komet group, JG400, scored nine kills while losing 14 of its own aircraft. This Me-163B (S/N 191095) may have been sabotaged while under construction. A small stone was wedged between the fuselage fuel tank and a supporting strap, and there was contaminated glue in the wing structure. Inside the aircraft skin are these words 'Manufacture Ferme' and 'Mon coeur est en chomage'. This aircraft was owned and restored by the Canadian National Aviation Museum and acquired by the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in 1999. Technical data: Span: 30-ft. 7 1/3 in. Length: 19-ft. 2 1/3 in. Height: 9-ft 2/3 in. (on takeoff dolly) Engine: Walter HWK 509A-2 rocket with 3,748 lbs. thrust Maximum speed: 596 mph Initial climb rate: 16,000-ft. per minute Combat range: about 50 miles Ceiling: 39,500-ft. Maximum powered endurance: 7.5 minutes Armament: Two 30mm MK 108 cannons This picture was taken on 8 June 2010, Sig...